Every day of Greek summer feels like a celebration – and that’s because it is! Greece celebrates summer from May until October. Hospitable, bright and colourful, it offers incredible treasures to all. Welcome to summer in Greece!

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Historic treasures Summer in Greece and ancient temples gaze out at the Aegean Sea. Portara in Naxos, Delos, Skarkos in Ios, Faistos in Heraklion, Crete; famous summer destinations where Greece’s past is illuminated by the Mediterranean sun. Ancient Olympia, Knossos and the Ancient Valley of Gortyna, the monasteries of Mt Athos, Akrotiri in Santorini; all are just a stone’s throw from the sea, and should be high priority on your summer holiday itinerary. As should the archaeological museums, Byzantine monasteries, castles, towers, and ancient trails. In Greece, even the smallest sight has a big history. Discover it.

Over treats and delicacies like amygdalota (crushed almond shortbread), soumada (almond syrup), mastiha, homemade lemonade, and aromatic Greek coffee, the locals will share the stories of their land. Myths, customs and traditions are still alive today, passed down from generation to generation through word of mouth. They’ll share improvised poems and songs, and you’ll want to hum along. Summer in Greece is generous and pure.

You’ll knock back shots at the fun-filled beach bars all day long. Multicoloured kiteboards and windsurf sails play in the waves and in the wind. Vouliagmeni on the Athenian Riviera, Paros, Mili and Vassiliki Beaches in Lefkada, Prasonisi in Rhodes, Sigri in Lesvos and Sarti in Halkidiki; wherever you are, you’re all one under the sun. Beach volleyball and paddle ball, scrabble and backgammon under the shade of your umbrella, diving from the dock, tubing and water skiing. Beautiful bathing suits, colourful sarongs, tanned bodies and smiling faces. Greece’s beaches always emit a positive vibe and infectious vitality, thanks to young people from all over the world.

A taste of Greece and the Mediterranean Day after day one culinary treat follows another. The Greek summer is overflowing with flavours and aromas; wild greens, fragrant fruits, legumes, vegetables, cheese, warm bread, extra virgin olive oil, fresh fish and seafood, homemade wine. Every place in Greece has its own microclimate. Every village, island and city has its own recipes. Whether you are walking with a slice of juicy watermelon along the beach, or indulging in a gourmet meal made with local produce, whether you’re dipping a slice of bread into pure olive oil or eating an oyster straight from the sea, the delicious flavours will delight your taste buds.

Wind in your sails Sea routes in the Greek islands: Santorini. Mykonos. Milos. Crete. Lefkada. Corfu. Zakynthos. Paxi. And do not forget to travel to Thassos Island. Award-winning (Blue Flag) marinas, picturesque fishing ports, hidden beaches, and bays with emerald water. More than 6,000 islands and islets, on a coastline more than 14,500 kilometres long – what more could yachting and sailing enthusiasts ask for! The summer winds in the Aegean are perfect for competitive sailing, while the calmer waters of the Ionian are ideal for smooth sailing.

Dive into the fun Bonfires on the beach, conversations, music, swimming by moonlight in a peaceful sea.

The barman concocts a new cocktail recipe, and treats you to shots with exotic flavours. The music pulses and the dancing begins, the lively crowd all under the spell of a local DJ. Greek summer is synonymous with the nightlife that lasts all night! You’ll go straight from the club to the beach, and with that first dip in the sea your mind and body will be revived. It’s romantic and emotional, without a schedule or obligation. Just live it!

You are all invited… …to the fairs and festivals of August 15th throughout Greece, with their rituals, lutes and treats… to the traditional weddings, and the bridal procession through the island’s cobblestone streets… to the Saints Day fairs, where the locals serve you homemade food, raki and wine… to the big parties,the cultural events and concerts at the open-air theatres overlooking the sea, or in the mediaeval fortresses…to the gastronomy festivals and ouzo celebrations. Hospitable and open-hearted, Greeks are always ready to welcome you with open arms and give you the best of what their home has to offer. Because they want you to get to know Greece as it is – pure and authentic. And you will invite them into your heart forever.

The hinterland No matter what beach in Greece you may find yourself on, it’s worth taking a trip into the hinterland. Nearby you’ll find traditional villages with shady squares lined with coffee shops, an archaeological site, an important museum, trails and parks, lakes and wetlands. Popular destinations that offer unforgettable summer experiences include Pelion, Crete, Messinia, Mani, Nafplio, Katerini, Preveza and Parga, Ilia and of course the Athenian Riviera with Sounion. These are just some of the places that will impress you, without ever having to leave the sea breeze.